Du Plessis starred in the second Test against Australia last week with a century on debut and will now feature for the Renegades in the BBL's season-opening clash against the Melbourne Stars on December 7.

Despite the nature of his century not exactly what the BBL requires - Du Plessis faced 376 deliveries for his unbeaten 110 - Renegades chief executive Stuart Coventry said they were aware of the South African's ability in the shorter format.

"Du Plessis is a classy cricketer and we're very happy for him to slot in to our top order for the December 7 derby," Coventry said.

"He showed a lot of character with his match-saving ton for South Africa in the second Test and he's hitting form at the right time for the Renegades.

"He's a multi-dimensional cricketer who has shown he can play all forms of the game at the highest level."